Beijing Private Tour to Summer Palace + Drum Tower Performance & Rickshaw
What your day looks like
Set off on an exclusive private tour to explore the Forbidden City, wandering through golden-roofed halls and hidden courtyards while your knowledgeable guide reveals tales of imperial power and royal daily life. Glide along the tranquil Kunming Lake by dragon boat at the Summer Palace, soaking in the harmonious blend of natural scenery and classical architecture. Delve into the ancient charm of Beijing’s Hutongs with a leisurely walk, visiting a local family to experience authentic courtyard living and gain profound insights into traditional customs. Your guide will tailor commentary to your interests, unlocking the cultural secrets behind every historic spot. This all-inclusive tour includes English-speaking guide service, all entrance fees, a delicious local meal, and private vehicle transfers with door-to-door hotel pick-up and drop-off—enjoy a hassle-free journey with your exclusive driver navigating the city seamlessly.
The experience, in brief
- Admire Bell Tower’s timehonored chimes; guide shares its imperial timekeeping history
- Explore Temple of Heaven’s serene lakes, intricate pavilions & Taoistroyal architecture blend
- Private tour with doortodoor transfers—skip traffic & public transport hassles
- Tailored guide commentary deepens your understanding of each spot’s cultural significance
The journey, in full
Your private guide and driver will arrive at your hotel within the 4th Ring Road of Beijing in the morning, waiting for you to begin your one-day itinerary. During the approximately 40-minute drive to the Summer Palace, your knowledgeable guide will share fascinating histories and stories about this iconic UNESCO World Heritage site. Feel free to ask any questions you may have along the way, as your guide is ready to offer in-depth insights tailored to your curiosity. Upon arrival, your guide will lead you on a curated tour of the Summer Palace, visiting key landmarks such as the Hall of Benevolence and Longevity—where emperors received officials and foreign envoys—and the Hall of Jade Ripples, once the place of house arrest for Emperor Guangxu. You will also explore the Hall of Fragrant Herbs, a former imperial library, as well as the Hall of Happiness and Longevity and Empress Dowager Cixi's private bedroom, uncovering tales of royal life. Take a leisurely stroll along the world’s longest Corridor, admired as the longest open-air art gallery, while your guide explains the exquisite paintings and cultural connotations behind them. Catch a glimpse of the majestic Seventeen Arches Bridge from a distance as you continue your exploration of the garden’s serene scenery. Throughout the tour, you’ll have the chance to pause, listen to captivating historical anecdotes, explore the buildings at your own pace, capture memorable photos, and then move on to the next point of interest without rushing. Make a stop at the iconic Marble Boat to uncover its intriguing history—symbolizing imperial extravagance and resilience—before heading to the Drum Tower to witness a dynamic traditional drum performance. Conclude the cultural exploration with a rickshaw ride through Beijing’s ancient Hutongs, immersing yourself in the vibrant local life and time-honored customs of the alleyways. Your guide and driver will send you back to your hotel to complete this one-day itinerary.
Your day, step by step
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Sightseeing at Summer Palace.
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Sightseeing at Long Corridor.
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Sightseeing at Kunming Lake.
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Sightseeing at Marble Boat.
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Sightseeing at Drum Tower and Bell Tower of Beijing.
What to know before booking
Included
Professional guide Hotel pickup and drop-off (For hotels within the 4th ring road of Beijing city) Transport by private vehicle Hutong rickshaw tour for 20 minutes Entrance fee Entry/Admission - Summer Palace (Yiheyuan) Entry/Admission - Hall of Benevolence and Longevity Entry/Admission - Hall of Happiness and Longevity Entry/Admission - Long Corridor at the Summer Palace Entry/Admission - Qingyan Stone Boat Entry/Admission - Bell and Drum Towers
Not Included
Additional entrance fees inside the Summer Palace Gratuities
What to Bring
Comfortable clothing and footwear Camera and other items you may need Sunscreen Spending money
Meeting & Pickup
We pick you up from your hotel within the 4th ring road of Beijing City. If your hotel is out of the 4th ring road of Beijing city, you can travel to the city to meet our guide or pickup from your hotel may have an extra cost)
Languages Offered
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Planning Notes
Hotel pickup offered: Yes Confirmation: Manual By Business